Early Learning In Marion County

Early learning service providers and key partners in the Marion County area are working collaboratively to improve coordination of services, access for families, and kindergarten readiness of our youngsters.

In response to statewide efforts to improve connectivity between early childhood programs, kindergarten readiness, and K-12 academic success, local experts have joined together in the creation of a new non-profit organization named the Early Learning Hub, Inc. (ELH). The ELH's focus will be to serve young children and their families living in Marion County or within the boundaries of the Salem-Keizer School District. The intent of the statewide effort is to help Oregon improve its overall economic picture by developing a multi-skilled workforce that is ready for the future.

The ELH Director, Kara Waddell, will assist the ELH board develop a family-centered early learning system that builds upon local expertise and implements best practices. The ELH board intends on applying for funds that will become available as a result of Oregon House Bill 4165.

Over the years, Great Beginnings, comprised of local early childhood advocates and program managers, have promoted best practices and program implementation throughout the region. Great Beginnings now serves as the ELH’s Technical Advisory Committee and has been actively engaged throughout the process providing technical assistance; convening state and local service experts; and developing recommendations for improving our local service delivery model. The concepts and recommendations developed by Great Beginnings focus on developmental screening, referral to services, and coordination of early learning services and supports intended to address education deficits at the earliest point possible.

The intended outcomes of the new statewide early learning system is to help families receive the assistance they need, when they need it, so their children can be more successful.